Types of Eyelid Cysts | Common Eye Conditions

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Eyelid cyst categories

Eyelid cysts fall into 2 main categories: benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

Sometimes it is difficult to know for sure what the cause of the cyst is, so it may be suggested that you have a biopsy – where a small piece of tissue is taken and sent off for examination to confirm the cause. Even if an eyelid cyst is benign, it can be cosmetically unsightly or cause pain and irritation.

Chalazion cysts

Chalazion is the most common type of benign (non-cancerous) eyelid cyst.

It occurs when the oil glands around the eyelids become blocked and the secretions from the oil gland collect to form a cyst.

This cyst can be easily removed under a local anaesthetic using a hidden incision underneath the eyelid. If you have any associated conditions like blepharitis or a skin infection around the cyst, further treatment may be suggested.

Xanthelasma lumps

Another common type of benign lump around the eyelids is Xanthelasma.

Xanthelasma are pale yellow lesions which occur when cholesterol is deposited in the top layers of the eyelid skin.

These can be easily removed and we usually suggest that your cholesterol levels are checked to reduce the chance of further Xanthelasma forming.

Sebaceous Cysts, Sweat Gland Cysts and Warts are other examples of benign eyelid lumps which can be safely removed.

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is a type of skin cancer that commonly occurs around the eyelid area.

Fortunately, it tends to grow slowly but if left untreated, can destroy deeper tissues and structures so it should be removed. Once removed, the eyelid area is reconstructed.

Occasionally if the edges of the cyst are not clear, it may be suggested that the cyst is removed by a Moh’s Surgeon (Specialist Dermatology Consultant who removes the cyst layer by layer to make sure that all the tumour is removed); before the area is then reconstructed.